Community members interested in learning how to be more prepared in the event of an emergency or natural disaster can take advantage of a beneficial program the city proudly offers.
Applications are now available for San Juan Capistrano’s next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program that kicks off Feb. 25. During the free seven-week course, participants learn about disaster preparedness; fire suppression; disaster medical operations; light search & rescue; disaster psychology; team organization; terrorism; and disaster simulation. Members receive about 20 hours of initial training.
The program’s benefits are endless: It increases disaster readiness, provides emergency skills that people can use in day-to-day emergencies, enhances the bond between government and community and increases community spirit.
The program is free for San Juan Capistrano residents and businesses; $25 for non-residents. Sign up fast, as seating is limited to 30.
Michael Cantor, the city’s emergency services coordinator, heads up the program, which is held on consecutive Mondays from 6:30-9 p.m. and one Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
For more information, a class schedule and application, contact Michael Cantor at 949-234-4565 or mcantor@sanjuancapistrano.org.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.